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Blessings Reign Down Upon Us All

Global leaders often promote reliance on their strength, power, and wisdom. In contrast, God’s enduring leadership is characterized by unwavering love, justice, and support for the marginalized. This utilization of the power dynamic underscores the Almighty’s ultimate authority. Understanding God’s actions naturally fosters trust and security, which leads to peace, joy, and hope, even amidst adversity. Recognizing God’s influence in the world and our personal lives nurtures gratitude and appreciation for God’s faithfulness. Belief in God’s benevolence, justice, and power provides security and hope, even in challenging circumstances. Aligning our lives with God’s will and striving to emulate God’s character allows us to participate in God’s work of blessing the world. This participation encourages Christ’s followers to defend the oppressed, provide for the needy, liberate the captive, and heal the broken. Witnessing, participating, and experiencing these acts cultivates profound gratitude and joy. Ultimately, when we actively acknowledge God’s work and align ourselves with God’s will, we experience the blessings of God’s righteous reign and contribute to a more blessed world.

5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
    whose hope is in the Lord his God,
6 who made heaven and earth,
    the sea, and all that is in them,
who keeps faith forever;
7  who executes justice for the oppressed,
    who gives food to the hungry.

The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8 the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
    the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the sojourners;
    he upholds the widow and the fatherless,
    but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

10 The Lord will reign forever,
    your God, O Zion, to all generations.
Praise the Lord!

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Psalm 146:5-10.

God’s multifaceted nature is revealed through God’s actions: God is the Creator, the faithful, the just judge, the provider, the deliverer, and the protector of the vulnerable. Each act showcases a distinct aspect of God’s character and concern for God’s people’s well-being while embodying justice, compassion, mercy, and deliverance. The Almighty provides, protects, and defends the vulnerable. God’s tangible care for the people’s physical needs is evident in providing food for the hungry and delivering people from the bondage of sin. These actions demonstrate God’s attentiveness to suffering and a willingness to intervene. God’s love and watchful care over sojourners highlight God’s unwavering commitment to the faithful through offering refuge and protection to those who seek God. Recognizing these facets of God’s character fosters security, hope, and gratitude, all of which contribute to the joy that fills us with awe as we acknowledge the depth and breadth of God’s actions on our behalf. This realization ignites a profound and enduring sense of well-being that stems from knowing we are loved and cared for by an all-powerful and eternally faithful God.

Human efforts to create joy fall short because humanity’s power is insignificant compared to God’s. They are temporary, and their plans fail no matter how good their intentions are. God, however, reigns eternally and has a power that is not limited by time or circumstance; it is enduring and unchanging. This understanding brings peace and stability to those who trust in God, knowing that their ultimate hope and security rests in the Almighty, which is unchanging and all-powerful. In a world of uncertainty and change, seeking security in tangible material possessions, social status, or human relationships is tempting. However, the Psalm above reminds us that proper security can only be found in God. When faced with difficult circumstances, we can quickly become overwhelmed by fear and anxiety if we rely solely on our strength and resources. However, remembering that God’s power is more consequential than any challenge we face can provide comfort and courage. Recognizing God as the Creator of heaven and earth reminds us that God has ultimate authority and control over all situations.

Even amidst pain and sorrow, God, the source of joy, continually blesses humanity. Where God’s justice, provision, and protection provide constant realities for those who trust in God’s providence, fostering enduring joy even in dark times, we are made aware of God’s tangible acts of love—providing for the hungry, freeing prisoners, and upholding the oppressed—bring joy and gratitude to those who experience them. Jesus, embodying God’s love, exemplified these attributes through his actions, emphasizing that God’s blessings are not confined to specific moments but revealed throughout history, offering hope and joy to all believers.

When recognized, God’s actions and significance cultivate joy, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a deep-seated confidence in His goodness and power. This confidence is grounded in His unchanging character, faithfulness, and commitment to upholding justice and caring for the vulnerable. Advent celebrates the first coming of Christ, acknowledging that God has already fulfilled His promise of sending a Savior into the world. Similar to recognizing God’s actions in Psalm 146, this realization is a cause for profound joy. We rejoice because God has acted decisively to redeem humanity, demonstrating His love and faithfulness. Advent also acknowledges that Christ’s kingdom has not yet fully come. We still live in a world marked by suffering, injustice, and brokenness. The fullness of God’s redemption and the ultimate realization of His kingdom remain a future hope. This “not yet” aspect can temper our joy with longing and anticipation. We yearn for the day when God’s reign will be fully established, and all creation will experience the fullness of His shalom. Therefore, the connection between joy and blessing in Advent can be understood as a dynamic interplay between gratitude for what God has done and hopeful anticipation for what He will accomplish. Recognizing and appreciating God’s actions can help us cultivate a more profound sense of joy during Advent and throughout our lives. This joy, rooted in God’s faithfulness and fueled by hope in His promises, sustains us as we journey toward the fullness of God’s kingdom.

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A Time For Peace

Throughout history, even in times perceived to be relatively peaceful, people and places often experience unease and fear. Where we stand in our world today is one of those moments. While armed conflicts exist in various parts of the world, our current era stands out for its relative peace. However, constant media bombardment often portrays a different reality. With every news report highlighting extreme statements and exaggerated rhetoric about opposing viewpoints, it seems that divisions within our nation grow wider. This behavior perpetuates division rather than offering comfort and security to the most vulnerable among us, who are in dire need of relief and safety. In contrast, one of the central themes of Advent is the role of God’s servants in bringing peace to the world. By following Christ’s example, his followers echo the Messiah’s mission of resolving conflicts and promoting peace through righteous actions, not through force. As we prepare for the already but not yet coming of Christ, we are reminded of Isaiah’s prophecy and declare that now is a time for peace.

11 There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse,

    and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.

2 And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,

    the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,

    the Spirit of counsel and might,

    the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.

3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.

He shall not judge by what his eyes see,

    or decide disputes by what his ears hear,

4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor,

    and decide with equity for the meek of the earth;

and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth,

    and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.

5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist,

    and faithfulness the belt of his loins.

6 The wolf shall dwell with the lamb,

    and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat,

and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together;

    and a little child shall lead them.

7 The cow and the bear shall graze;

    their young shall lie down together;

    and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.

8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra,

    and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den.

9 They shall not hurt or destroy

    in all my holy mountain;

for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord

    as the waters cover the sea.

10 In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Isaiah 11:1-11.

During Advent, we eagerly await the arrival of Christ, the prophesied Messiah from Isaiah, who promises justice and genuine peace for humanity. He will rule with integrity and righteousness, fostering peace through just leadership. His path to achieving justice and peace will be guided not by flowery language or deceit, but by an unwavering commitment to righteousness in thought and action. Our own actions must exemplify the truth of the Gospel, and we must lead lives characterized by righteousness. As we celebrate Advent, we strive to bring about God’s peace by actively seeking justice for all, anticipating the coming of Christ, who will ultimately establish true justice and peace in our world.

The Messiah’s promise of PEACE extends beyond humanity. It envisions a restoration of harmony and communion within all of creation. Through his artistic talent, Isaiah paints a picture of a transformed world where former natural adversaries coexist peacefully. The once-ferocious predator and the vulnerable prey interact harmoniously, symbolizing the all-encompassing peace ushered in by the Messiah’s arrival. This imagery serves as a reminder that Christ’s coming ultimately leads to the reconciliation of all creation. In this transformed world, the powerful will no longer prey upon the vulnerable, but rather they will thrive together. The call to prepare for the Messiah’s coming involves caring for one another, particularly the vulnerable and poor among us, and advocating for justice in all aspects of life. This call to justice stems from the understanding that justice leads to PEACE. Our hearts must be moved toward justice to realize the PEACE promised by the Messiah.

PEACE embodies God’s very nature, and the advent of the Messiah deepens our understanding of His boundless GRACE. Ushering in a world “full of the knowledge of the Lord,” the Messiah brings not only wisdom but also a profound knowledge rooted in relationship with God. This connection to the divine leads to comprehensive peace, encompassing understanding, harmony, and obedience to God’s will. Through sacrificial love, Christ reconciles us, emphasizing that God’s truth and knowledge are inextricably intertwined with self-sacrificing love, culminating at the cross. This transformative knowledge, imbued with grace-filled relationship, invites us during Advent to open our hearts and contribute to the peace it brings. By sharing God’s love with our community, we illuminate His character and ultimately experience PEACE through grace.

In a time of great chaos, the prophet Isaiah reminds us that peace is possible. However, to fully experience God’s intentions for creation, we must embrace sacrificial love for our community, even those who may not deserve it. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross unifies us with God, transforming an act of violence meant to divide and scatter into a paramount act of grace that reunites creation with its Creator. During Advent, we are tasked with bringing God’s peace to our communities by sharing the Gospel and the knowledge of God’s truth. This is not a passive endeavor but requires a transformation of our lives. We must pursue justice and empower the weak and powerless, demonstrating the actions of Christ in the world. By doing so, we create a genuine space and time for peace. In essence, the path to peace lies in embracing sacrificial love, living out the message of peace through our actions, and empowering the marginalized to experience the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. Through this collective effort, we can create a world that reflects the peace that God desires for all creation.

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It’s Time To Wake Up

Look around our community, listen to the sounds, smell the scents, there is a difference around us. God opens to us an opportunity. It’s not just that we are marching toward the Christmas holiday, or that we approach the beauty of the perfect gift given to us in Christ Jesus, but it is a world that is crying out for the Church to bring peace to a world at war with itself. If we don’t raise up now in the world, then it begs the question whether the church will ever rise to the challenge. Similarly, Jesus came to the world in a time when the religious leaders were at war with each other; we stand now where our world is increasingly in conflict and division, and God sends us to the world. We now find ourselves in a situation and a time and place where the church is called to get up out of our seats and bring the Gospel to the world. Just as Paul called the church in Rome to stand up and get to work, Christ calls us, His Church, to come forward and walk as those bringing the light into the darkness.

11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. 12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Romans 13:11-14.

This passage is a wake-up call for believers to spiritual alertness and rings with urgency. Believers, like awakening from slumber, must rouse themselves from spiritual complacency. Time is of the essence, and how we live matters. In ancient Rome, the coming of Christ challenged the people of the Empire, urging them to abandon empty gestures and seek true spiritual awakening. The church of that era was called to rise and become aware of the indwelling Spirit of God. This awareness was meant to be shared with the world, leading to transformation and inspiring others to come to Christ. Yet, the church has spent too much time in slumber, focusing more on claiming Christianity as a global identity rather than living in a manner that would reflect the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. God’s call is not for us to engage in mere entertainment but to lift the world into His hands. The alarm has sounded, and we cannot afford to keep hitting the snooze button. It is time to rise from our complacency and stand for the Gospel. Our mission is to live for Christ and share His glory through our actions and our love for one another. 

Embracing light necessitates casting off darkness. This metaphor symbolizes a stark separation from sinful actions. It implores us to abandon immorality, discord, and self-gratification, donning instead virtues such as goodness, righteousness, and truth. Paul emphasizes that within the church, there is no place for division and sin, urging believers to cast aside any darkness encroaching upon the light. Consequently, followers of Christ must acknowledge their sinfulness and strive to cleanse themselves from all that hinders them from living as Christ did. While sin may be alluring, recognizing that we are all sinners should not deter us from pursuing sanctification, for it is Christ’s grace that saves us. However, as Christ’s followers, we are also called to live in a manner that, despite our sinful nature, we must strive to eliminate all sin and submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit, who guides us toward sanctification. As we heed the call to awaken, Jesus summons us, the Church, to embody the perfection to which Christ has called us. This entails repentance wherever sin exists in our lives and entrusting our hearts into the hands of the Almighty.

To live a life that exemplifies Christ’s character and teachings, we must make choices that honor Him and resist temptations that cater to our sinful nature. As Christians, we are reminded to set aside our sinful desires and embrace a new way of living. While it may be tempting to continue living in our old ways, we must strive to love as Christ loved, show kindness to the world, and offer hope through the love of Christ Jesus. In Christ, we are new creations, no longer defined by sin but transformed by the hope of Christ. Our mission in the world is to be a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness. To effectively do this, we must live transformed lives, casting aside sin and allowing ourselves to be molded into new creations. The true hope of the Gospel lies in this transformation, allowing us to live as Christ taught us to live.

During this Advent season, as we anticipate the arrival of Christ, we recognize that we exist in a transitional period—an already, but not yet time. Christ imparts hope upon us through the transformative power of salvation while simultaneously calling us to embrace sanctification by living in enlightenment. Christ graced us with his teachings, guiding us toward a life free from sin, and while our salvation hinges on God’s grace, we also bear the responsibility to spread the hope of Christ by shedding the sins that encumber our own lives. The Apostle Paul implored the Roman church to pursue holiness by living in the light, discarding any lingering darkness. Similarly, as God’s contemporary Church, we must rid ourselves of sin to embody Christ’s compassion within our community, allowing others to witness our transformative journey. This is a clarion call to break free from complacency and allow the Holy Spirit to direct us toward lives defined by transformation. This season is one of hope, and the Church is called to live in accordance with the Gospel. However, it is imperative that we sound the alarm, rousing the world from its slumber and encouraging it to awaken to the hope that the Gospel offers. This awakening can be achieved by sharing the Gospel while embodying the transformative power of Christ within each of us.

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It All Belongs To God

In preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, when we reflect upon what we have to be thankful for, some may find themselves in a place of despair, claiming there is nothing worthy of gratitude. The darkness of their circumstances may overshadow the blessings that still remain. However, God’s Church must rise above this despair and understand that we have been given a great responsibility to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness for all our blessings, recognizing that they are ultimately gifts from God, freely given to us despite our shortcomings. Just as King David, in his wisdom, prepared materials for the temple and called upon the people to participate, reminding them that all they possessed was a gift from God, so too are we called to give back with open hands and joyful hearts. David provides a powerful example, calling us all to understand that everything we have, from the smallest to the greatest, originates from God’s generous hand, and in response, we should freely offer back to Him with gratitude and thanksgiving.

14 “But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. 15 For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding. 16 O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own. 17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you. 18 O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. 19 Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 1 Chronicles 29:14-19.

Thanksgiving begins with a profound understanding that every aspect of our lives, every breath we take, every beat of our hearts, is a precious gift from God. Just as King David, in the process of building a temple for God, appealed to the people reminding them that every gift given was really handing back to God what they had already been blessed with, we too recognize that all we have originates from Him. Therefore, the greatest gift we could offer is the complete surrender of our hearts in worship, our minds in diligent study of His Word, and all our abundance to advance the Gospel through the Church. This Thanksgiving, let us not hold back from giving to God, for everything comes from Him for our benefit. In turn, let us extend that generosity to those in need, to the church for the sake of the Gospel, and actively seek peace in the world, for we only know what true peace is because God graciously gave it to us first.

We thank God for the blessings and experiences that have shaped our past. Every event has contributed to our present journey. David emphasized God’s faithfulness to the Israelites, dating back to Abraham. He recognized that their greatest need was a relationship with God and that straying from this path hindered their progress. Similarly, we have often hindered ourselves within the church by opposing Jesus’ teachings. Instead, we should return to Jesus’ perspective and acknowledge that the Gospel reveals the abundance of gifts bestowed upon us through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. It is by God’s grace that we stand where we do today. Our calling is to live out this example of faith, drawing from the past to bless others as we have been blessed.

Ultimately, Thanksgiving entrusts our future into the hands of God. Each believer must embrace the truth of the Gospel, allowing us to present our children, our legacies, and our aspirations before God for His blessings. Uncertainty should be surrendered to Him. As David entrusted the future of Solomon and the temple to God, we too should relinquish our anxieties and uncertainties about the future to Him. This surrender signifies our trust and faith in God’s plan. Thanksgiving is an act of faith in God’s plan. Through giving thanks, we acknowledge God’s past blessings, appreciate His works, and express faith in His guidance for the future. It’s a statement of trust, saying, “God, I trust in You, even though the future is uncertain.” Despite life’s chaos and uncertainty, God remains in control. He sent Jesus to save us, and our mission as a church is to share this good news with the world, offering hope and love to everyone. This is our calling.

We are called to embrace God’s blessings and continually seek His grace, mercy, and love in the present, past, and future. All that we possess, our talents, and our future belong to God. We are entrusted with these gifts to serve others and fulfill His purpose in the world. As our Churches must serve as beacons of light, peace, and reconciliation, offering hope to those who cannot see light as they are surrounded by darkness while the church spreads God’s love to all. True Thanksgiving transcends mere words; it manifests in our actions, our way of life, and how we treat others. It involves sharing peace, hope, and love with everyone we encounter, honoring God through our deeds.

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The Walk

Walking around our community, I have noticed a much greater number of fences that have gone up. While there may be a number of reasons for this, such as keeping out solicitors, or as a deterrent for crime, it has certainly made it more and more apparent that we are isolating ourselves from each other. Sin and ingratitude have built up fences between us and God, and often, those fences seem insurmountable. Due to our flaunting of God’s commands we have even isolated ourselves from the Almighty. Fortunately, Jesus’ sacrifice opens a gate in the gap and allows us to enter, even though we do not deserve it. As we recognize the blessed offering from God, we must learn to accept the gift, and walk in a way that is full of thanksgiving and joy, full of light and right living. Psalm 118 exemplifies how we are to walk with God.

19 Open to me the gates of righteousness,

     that I may enter through them

     and give thanks to the Lord.

20 This is the gate of the Lord;

     the righteous shall enter through it.

21 I thank you that you have answered me

     and have become my salvation.

22 The stone that the builders rejected

     has become the cornerstone.

23 This is the Lord’s doing;

    it is marvelous in our eyes.

24 This is the day that the Lord has made;

     let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Psalm 118:19-24.

In the darkest moments, God provides an opening to grace and salvation. Though Israel did not deserve the graciousness shown by God, through their constant failing to live up to God’s Law, God kept a remnant alive to come back, and God once again accepted their sacrifice. Sin proves to be a powerful draw away from righteous living. Sin allows darkness to cloud our judgment, but God directs us to the gate through Christ’s righteousness and saves us from sin. While salvation is ultimately found in Christ, God calls the people to sanctification and walking in the light of righteousness. Righteous living must define our lives, which requires believers to step away from sin and live in God’s peace with the world. By doing this we not only fulfill God’s calling for our lives, but we show by our walk that we are thankful for the life and sacrifice of Christ. Gratitude is an essential component of walking in righteousness. For without gratitude, we cheapen the grace received, and walk away from the life we are called to by Christ.

The temptation to walk away from God’s calling often comes in the midst of uncertainty or fear and we look elsewhere for answers. However, these times are opportunities for the Almighty God to prepare us for service. When we face rejection and fear, God makes us ready to be used for the glory of God. Unfortunately, we are not always going to find acceptance, and we are urged to remember that Jesus was rejected, but God used Jesus to transform the world. When the world knocks us down, God lifts us up to become something greater. We need to learn to prepare our hearts for what God is going to do with us individually, and corporately as a church. Transformation is made possible through faith in Christ, who delivers us from sin and death. That grace shared with us reminds us that even when we are struggling to keep walking in the light, through the power of Christ we walk with confidence as we follow in His footsteps. Therefore, we must even know that our gratitude flows from the amazing grace of God in Christ.

A key to gratitude is the reminder that there is always reason to give thanks and rejoice because we are the beloved of the Creator. Though we don’t deserve it, God smiles upon us each day and invites us to look up as we make ourselves more dependent on God, and relinquish our anxieties and fears. This perspective reminds us that each day is a gift from God, and walking in righteousness involves living each day in joyful gratitude for His salvation. “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it,” becomes more than simple liturgy, and infuses our soul with joy. With joy we understand that walking in the light is an active choice we must make each day because darkness begs us to yield to it and flee from the light. God goes to great lengths to show us that we are cared for and loved, we need to walk in such a way that we show off our belovedness. For when we do this, our community is ministered to in a way that the Gospel flows from us and into the hearts of those witnessing the grace and peace present in our steps and actions.

As we regularly reflect on the magnitude of God’s love and the salvation that Christ secured for us, we understand that the walk of faith starts with Christ tearing down the wall and opening the gate for our salvation. Therefore we are called to express our thanks through prayer, worship, and obedience. When we do this our hearts seek to live righteously in every area of your life. This includes your relationships, work, finances, and personal conduct. Thus it is imperative that we strive to align our thoughts, words, and actions with God’s will. Nothing is more important than our walk with God; every aspect of our life must reflect a transformation and an understanding that God has a purpose for us. We are called to live a life that honors God and reflects the transformative power of His grace. You can walk in righteousness and thanksgiving, experiencing the fullness of joy and purpose that He intends for us, and through this the whole community can be lifted up through the power of God moving through us.

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I Am Able

We often underestimate our potential when faced with a true test. In these challenging moments, we discover our strength and resilience and realize that we are capable of more than we ever imagined. However, we don’t simply rely upon a self-made power or resiliency; instead, we rest in the strength of the Lord and remember that. Our world is increasingly divided, and looking at the election results and response, that becomes transparent. As followers of Christ, we may look upon that and say there is no way we can bridge that divide, but no matter where you find yourself on that spectrum, through Christ, it is possible. However, we cannot simply complain and wallow about the circumstance and wish it would change, but the Gospel demands that we reframe our mindset. Joy must be chosen, our hearts must be devoted to prayer, and we must become mindful of how we look at our world. Paul, in his closing words to the church in Phillipi, reminded them that no matter whether they were flourishing or troubled, a mind devoted to prayer and thanksgiving can change the world through Christ’s power.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Philippians 4:4-20.

We must remember that God is present with us and continuously asks us to offer every concern and emotion. Through this, God molds and mends our hearts and minds to focus on God’s calling. Whether in a time of prosperity or trouble, we must remember that God is with us continuously. Clearly, there will be good times and bad times throughout life, but we cannot allow our minds to feel powerless and out of control. Give our hearts to the Almighty, and power will be imbued within us. With the power of the Almighty, we can change the world around us. Just as the church in Phillipi offered kindness to Paul, which changed his outlook and situation, the church today is called to bring kindness to the division found in our world. Kindness brings healing, mercy, and peace. No matter who we are, we can always be kind. This is the power of God moving through us to change hurt into healing, chaos into peace, and hatred into love, which God calls the church to embody.

Our minds are powerful tools, and we have been given the incredible power to direct our thoughts. By focusing on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy, we can shape our perspective and experience a life of hope. Through supplication and thanksgiving, God grants us significant control over our thoughts. We might be tempted to think negatively because negativity and darkness surround us through the news and social media. However, Christ implores us to focus on what is beneficial and good. Just as  Paul offered thanks for the Phillipian church and their offerings to strengthen him, his focus was on the good they had offered him. While he could have been stuck in a negative spiral from the rejections he faced, he instead focused on the hope instilled by the church’s kindness and gave thanks to God for the gift. In this season, the church must bring hope to those in despair. Many people fear the future, and instead of speaking with language that minimizes or discards their emotions, we must learn to walk alongside people instead of clinging to false virtuosity. The church’s mission is to bring hope to the world by focusing on God’s promises and sharing those with our community because we remember that our hope is in Christ, not the government. 

When the source of our power comes from Christ, we can rise above any circumstance, fostering a sense of resilience and empowerment. Through the power of Christ, we understand how to be content and that our troubles are only temporary. Understanding how hope or anything positive can exist in hardship is difficult. Trouble seemingly begets trouble; however, Christ’s power can circumvent the downward spiral that darkness can take us down. Jesus’s power to overcome even death shows us that we are not confined to this difficulty; we can overcome and rise by Christ’s power of hope and peace. Paul reminded the people that his power came from Christ in the midst of both good and bad. There was no limit to what he could accomplish in his ministry through Christ. When persecutions come, Christ enables Paul to overcome and still carry out his purposes. This is exemplified by the way Paul continued the spread of the Gospel to Rome, even while he was imprisoned; therefore, even chains couldn’t prevent him from an empowered ministry. We look at our world and may think there is too much division to do any good. However, Paul reminds us that just as he was able to spread the Gospel throughout the Gentiles despite numerous setbacks and failures, it was powered by Christ and not by his power. Similarly, we are not powered to ministry through any government entity or any self-propulsion, but rather, when we are ready to take on the mantle of the Gospel, we are empowered by Christ. Thus, all excuses melt away, and we must proclaim that through Christ, I am able.

The election results provide a unique challenge to the church right now. God has called us to become a bridge during these tumultuous and divisive times, bringing hope, peace, and many prayers. While there may be many reasons we either don’t want to do this or feel we are incapable of such a high task. Christ eliminates these excuses by empowering all believers to carry out this mission into the world. When we focus our thoughts on God’s virtue, we remember the goodness God has supplied us in times of good and bad. This leads us toward thanksgiving and a renewed understanding that God has called us to walk alongside our hurting neighbors. In all circumstances, by choosing to rejoice in worship, we provide a balm to the pain experienced during times of strife. Through Paul’s example, the church finds inspiration to guide our community to the Gospel despite the rampant chaos and pain. He did not use any circumstance to prevent him from sharing the Gospel, but instead focused his mind on God and remembered that through Christ’s power, there are no barriers to his mission. We then must go out and respond to Christ’s call on our lives by responding that if Christ empowers us, I am able to accomplish it.

JRMITCH85 Faith, Hope, thanksgiving

Always Choosing Joy

As we approach the election, it’s clear that many of us are grappling with a shared sense of unease about what the future holds. This collective anxiety seems to transcend political divides, uniting us in a way that’s both comforting and disconcerting. No matter the election results, God calls each and every follower of Jesus to hold onto the joy of the Gospel. A thankful Christian must be a joy-filled servant ready to listen to how we can best serve people in our community. Paul’s admonition for the church in Thessalonica is equally true for the church here in the US. We are called to love, peace, encouragement, and joy. Therefore, with an eye on the call from Scripture, we must devote ourselves to bringing peace to our world.

12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.

23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24.

One of the most beautiful and powerful traits of a Christ follower is their unwavering joy, a joy that transcends circumstances and brings light to the darkest of times. If the church earnestly desires to influence the world, we must do it through our dedication to seeking joy in all circumstances. Doing anything else will more likely add to the chaos instead of speaking and acting as an instrument that brings healing to the divisions within the structure of our elections. Our joy always seeks to bring good to our community, even those who are opponents. At all times, our hearts must seek peace with all and for all our community. With this mindset, we shift from adversaries to ones with whom we seek mutual benefit. Through these actions, we shift from selfishness to humility in the face of becoming a joy-filled follower. We become light to everyone, and a source where we become an oasis to those weary in our community striving to flee the darkness.

Regardless of our feelings or the darkness that may seem to envelop the world, Christians are always called to seek God in prayer. This powerful act of communion with our Creator is a source of strength and reassurance, connecting us to the divine in times of uncertainty. Our prayers must dwell richly with those that may hate us and oppose us at every turn, because we must seek that God blesses our world. For we live among our community and we strive to implore that God’s everlasting grace bless the land and the people of the land that it may lead to a complete and true transformation. The prayers we actively pursue in relationship with God needs to be mindful of the situation we are in, but also to eliminate the very concept of vengeance from our minds. As in testing times like this there is always the temptation to vanquish our opponents, but as followers of Christ we see Paul calling us to prayer, and Jesus reminds us to love our enemies, thus our prayers must include asking God to heal our hearts as well. For in our prayers, we are reminded of God’s goodness, and the greatness of the Gospel. Thus, we must have hearts that understand that in this season we are to be thankful for the ability to come to the Almighty in prayer no matter what happens in our world.

As pillars of the Christian faith, joy and prayer lead Christ’s followers to a profound understanding. Through the Almighty God, we are called to a deep sense of thankfulness for the Gospel and God’s providence available to Christians. This gratitude uplifts our spirits and helps us appreciate the blessings surrounding us, even amid trials. We have no reason to fear because the outpouring of God’s love in our lives will keep us and protect us in the midst of any trial, and thus God desires that we remain without fault in the light of the Gospel, which leads us to worship and thanksgiving. None of those on the ballot can promise us what Jesus has already done, therefore our hope must firmly be placed in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The converse is also true, no one on the ballot can remove the efficacy of Christ’s death on a cross; therefore, we head into this week without a spirit of fear, but rather with a spirit of thanksgiving for what God has done.

The Spirit of God transcends our current circumstances; thus, we cannot allow anxiety to dictate whether we will follow Christ’s and Paul’s instructions. We must strive after sanctification in all things, but that begins with us choosing joy in Christ at all times. Regardless of our feelings about this upcoming election, we are called to choose joy. Joy has the power to transform our communities from places of division into havens for peace, and that is God’s mission for the church right here and right now. Think about joy in the words you use with your neighbor, and may your actions reflect the goodness of the Gospel as it has penetrated your heart. Through all of this we look upon what God has done for us and what God is doing in our community, and we give thanks, and lead our world to give thanks, not because of the outcome of an election, but because God is active and present bringing peace to us all.

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Jesus Gives Us Enough

Complaints and calls for change stem from an utter lack of satisfaction today. Although a quest for satisfaction is not new, it hearkens back to the beginning of the world when humans in Eden wanted more as they succumbed to temptation in the garden. The Rolling Stones echoed this, as they couldn’t get satisfaction. This lack leads to all sorts of questing for more, and people will go to odd ends to do so. From seeking validation through online platforms and measuring our worth by the number of followers or likes we receive rather than finding our identity in Christ. We may constantly compare our spiritual lives or achievements to those of others, leading to envy, pride, or a sense of inadequacy instead of finding contentment in Christ. We may look to human authorities for validation or direction rather than seeking guidance from God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.

We may become preoccupied with outward religious practices or adherence to specific doctrines while neglecting the true heart transformation that God desires. Our appearance takes precedence rather than cultivating a genuine relationship with God. This action leads to overlooking the daily miracles of creation – the sunrise, the changing seasons, the intricate design of a flower – and failing to see them as reflections of God’s glory. When this happens, we neglect the everyday miracles of human connection and the blessings of relationships. Jesus presented himself to the people for a relationship and showed great compassion for them, but even with all the miracles, there were many who simply wanted more.

In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him and said to them, 2 “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. 3 And if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way. And some of them have come from far away.” 4 And his disciples answered him, “How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?” 5 And he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven.” 6 And he directed the crowd to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the crowd. 7 And they had a few small fish. And having blessed them, he said that these also should be set before them.8 And they ate and were satisfied. And they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. 9 And there were about four thousand people. And he sent them away. 10 And immediately he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the district of Dalmanutha.

11 The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” 13 And he left them, got into the boat again, and went to the other side.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Mark 8:1-13.

God’s unwavering care for humanity is exemplified through His divine sustenance and mercy, regardless of our worthiness. This undeserved favor should fill our hearts with gratitude. Christ’s compassion is evident as He perceives the physical needs of the crowd even before His disciples do. His compassion precedes provision, reminding us that God is always aware of and cares for His people, proactively acting on our behalf. Before performing the miracle of feeding the multitude, Jesus offers thanks, acknowledging that all good things originate from God and are ultimately His to bestow. Our response of gratitude recognizes our dependence on Him. The crowd’s contentment with Jesus’ provision teaches us to be content with what God provides, trusting in His wisdom and believing that He knows and will fulfill our needs.

Arrogantly seeking more than what we have already been given implies that we believe we deserve something extra. Jesus Christ, the ultimate sign from heaven, exemplified by His miraculous feeding of 4,000 people, affirms His divine authority and power. He is the fulfillment of all divine promises, and we should not seek guidance or fulfillment elsewhere. Seeking signs beyond Christ reveals a lack of faith, as seen in the Pharisees’ demand for a sign. Their hearts were challenging God rather than genuinely seeking Him. True faith in Christ alone is sufficient; it does not necessitate additional proof or signs. Christ’s sufficiency silences our demands, as He has already provided everything necessary for our salvation and life through Him.

In our journey of following Christ, worship finds its ultimate expression in thanksgiving. This natural response to our undeserved faith echoes the crowd’s reception of the meal as a gracious gift from Jesus. Just as they received salvation and spiritual blessings, we too are recipients of these undeserved favors. This unmerited favor cultivates humility within us, reminding us of our dependence on God and countering the pride that seeks more than Christ’s sufficiency. Furthermore, gratitude fosters a heart filled with praise and adoration, leading us to worship God for who He is and all He has done. Recognizing His sufficiency fuels our worship, as we adore Him in response to His grace. In this way, worship becomes a cycle of receiving and responding, a beautiful exchange between us and our loving Father.

The passage concludes by emphasizing the importance of cultivating gratitude as followers of Christ. This gratitude is rooted in recognizing God’s providential care, Christ’s sufficiency, and our own grace in Him. We are called to be content with what God provides, trusting that He is enough and that asking for more is unnecessary. Furthermore, we are called to be agents of compassion and justice in the world, inspired by Jesus’ compassion for the hungry crowd. We are to see the needs around us and respond with love and action, following Jesus’ example. Just as Jesus provided physical bread for the crowd, we are called to share the “Bread of Life” – the Gospel – with a world hungry for meaning and purpose. While we may feel inadequate or our resources may seem small, the passage reminds us that God can multiply what we offer for His glory. The cultivation of gratitude, coupled with our role as agents of compassion and the sharing of the Gospel, encapsulates the essence of our calling as followers of Christ.

JRMITCH85 Faith, Hope, thanksgiving

Healed And Ready To Serve

The season of illness is upon us. Those with schoolchildren especially see all sorts of sicknesses spring up around them. Despite the best defensive measures, classrooms become Petri dishes for viruses and bacteria. Ever since the fall of man, sin has been a virus that infects our souls, seemingly breaking us free from our original purpose of worshipping and enjoying the benefits of creation. Instead, we toil and spin into the disease of selfishness and look primarily to our desires rather than caring for others. But Jesus came to heal us. The sacrificial act on the cross restored humanity to a relationship with God. His actions, like those in the healing of the ten leperous men, teach us that healing is a complete body, mind, and soul undertaking. He came to heal our souls from sin and our bodies from disease. This transformative power of God’s healing, when we truly understand it, fills us with hope and inspiration, compelling us to turn our healing into a service to the Almighty.

11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” 14 When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Luke 17:11-17.

Jesus comes to us; therefore, there is no need to travel to a specific place to encounter healing. We don’t see Jesus acting here in a special holy place. Instead, we see this act occurring while He travels and encounters people in their everyday context. Lepers were ritually unclean and forced to live apart, which is why they kept their distance. Yet, Jesus met them where they were, both physically and spiritually, showing that His grace extends to all, regardless of their perceived worthiness or social standing. The lepers were cleansed “as they went.” This signifies that faith in Jesus sets healing in motion before the physical manifestation is complete. We don’t have to earn or achieve access to God. He comes to us in grace through Christ. Just as Jesus met the lepers, He came to us in our brokenness and need. We don’t have to make ourselves “worthy” or travel to a special location. Our part is simply to cry out to Him in faith, like the lepers did, and trust in His mercy.

Trusting God begins by believing in the efficacy of God’s power. When Jesus tells us to do something, we mustn’t question it. Jesus instructed the lepers to show themselves to the priests before they were healed. Even without understanding this unexpected command, they were demanded to trust in Jesus’ authority and the efficacy of His word, prior to seeing the results of Jesus’ power. In the same way, we are called to trust and obey God’s Word, even when before we understand it, because it is His revealed Will for us. True faith is not passive; it leads to action and obedience. While salvation is by grace alone, true faith will inevitably produce good works in response to God’s grace. True faith involves trusting in God’s power and obeying His commands. It’s a call to active obedience, recognizing that God’s ways are higher than ours and that He is faithful to fulfill His promises. For this reason alone we must fill our hearts and minds with thankfulness.

In all circumstances, we must remember Thanksgiving. God heals us because the Almighty loves us and doesn’t require exorbitant payment for services rendered. However, in worship, we respond to God’s goodness with thanksgiving. The one leper’s response shows that gratitude is not merely a feeling but an act of obedience and a mark of spiritual growth—the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are gradually transformed into the image of Christ. Gratitude is central in this process, shaping our hearts and minds to be more like Christ. It’s a call to appreciate and be humble in the face of God’s goodness. We worship not to earn God’s favor but to express gratitude for what He has done for us in Christ. Therefore, thanksgiving isn’t just a polite afterthought; it’s an essential part of the Christian life, acknowledging our dependence on God and praising Him for His goodness. God’s grace is unmerited by its nature. As we receive unmerited favor, our hearts must flood with thanksgiving and move toward serving God’s mission in our communities. 

The story of the ten lepers reminds us that God’s healing and salvation are gifts of grace. True faith responds with heartfelt thanksgiving and worship, acknowledging our dependence on Him and glorifying Him for His abundant mercy. Even facing illness and disease, while painful and complex realities, we understand that they are not meaningless occurrences, but consequences of the Fall, where sin entered the world and disrupted the perfect harmony of creation. So, even while suffering, God’s sovereignty and grace are at work, using even these trials to draw us closer to Him, refine our faith, and ultimately bring about His redemptive purposes. Most people who experience God’s healing do not respond with thankfulness, but we are called to more. As recipients of God’s amazing grace, we are called to a life transcending the world’s pervasive ingratitude. As healed people, let us strive to recognize, appreciate, and respond to God’s goodness with hearts overflowing with gratitude.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, thanksgiving

We’ve Been Delivered

Thanksgiving usually gets confined to that brief window between Halloween and Christmas. With it, we think of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and an abundance of food that everyone at least satiated and most likely a bit stuffed. The holiday invites us to reflect upon our thankfulness. At my parents’ home last year, my niece invited us to write down items for which we were thankful. This gesture reminds me that often, we need to look at thankfulness with the heart of a child. However, throughout the scriptures, there are calls and reminders that thankfulness is necessary throughout the year. We have much to be thankful for in all circumstances, and one of our primary focuses should cause us to look at God’s blessings on us even when we have done nothing deserving of anything. The Psalmist leads us toward thanksgiving because when we are in need, God provides deliverance from our struggle, not because we are good or deserving, but because God is good and loves us abundantly.

107 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, 

for his steadfast love endures forever! 

2  Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, 

whom he has redeemed from trouble 

3  and gathered in from the lands, 

from the east and from the west, 

from the north and from the south. 

4  Some wandered in desert wastes, 

finding no way to a city to dwell in; 

5  hungry and thirsty, 

their soul fainted within them. 

6  Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, 

and he delivered them from their distress. 

7  He led them by a straight way 

till they reached a city to dwell in. 

8  Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, 

for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

9  For he satisfies the longing soul, 

and the hungry soul he fills with good things. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ps 107:1–9.

God’s enduring love is always present with us, regardless of our circumstances, and it is always good. It is this gift that the Psalmist directs our hearts to, first and foremost; therefore, our focus in any circumstance must direct us back to focus on God’s providence and mercy. Regardless of where the Israelites are, God shows His followers love by guiding us and leading the people back to the Almighty. This is the repeating refrain of the psalm. No matter what situation we find ourselves in, we can always rely on God’s love and faithfulness. He is always there to deliver us. That deliverance is not temporary nor dependent on some beneficent action on our part. Instead, it comes directly from the grace imparted to the people through the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Due to God’s enduring love, we are directed to worship and thank God for delivering us from our circumstances and granting us hope for our future, providing us with a constant source of reassurance and comfort.

When we find ourselves in a precarious position, God hears our cries for mercy and help. The psalmist describes people in distress: lost in the wilderness, hungry and thirsty, imprisoned. But when they cry out to the Lord, He hears them and delivers them from their troubles. We can always pray to God, no matter how difficult our circumstances may seem. The Almighty hears our cries, and God provides us comfort, mercy, and peace when we seek shelter in God’s arms. When we are backed into a corner, the temptation may be to bargain with God, promising to be better than the person we were if God helps us out of the jam. However, that contradicts the prayers and cries God asks of us. Instead, we come before the Almighty with thankful hearts and a spirit of gratitude, requesting deliverance because we recognize God’s merciful heart. 

God delivers us from our physical troubles, but more significantly, God’s deliverance heals us spiritually so that we are transformed into a new creation. The Psalmist recounts that the people were in need and that God had led them gently until that need was fulfilled. This type of fulfillment doesn’t simply create a reliance upon the Almighty God but elicits a response toward transforming their minds toward worship and thanksgiving. Not only does God deliver us from trouble, but also fills our physical and spiritual needs. The Almighty satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry stomach. This speaks to God’s abundant provision and desire to bless people. Once our needs are met, God uniquely touches our hearts so that we may respond to this goodness with gratitude and thanksgiving. These transformative experiences help lead us to a life focused on fulfilling God’s call through worship, prayer, and thanksgiving, inspiring us to live a life of gratitude and service.

Ultimately, Psalm 107 calls each of us to thank God for His goodness and mercy. We thank God for hearing our prayers, delivering us from trouble, and providing for all our needs. Our minds should be focused on acts of devotion, regular prayer, and studying sacred scriptures. These practices help us connect with the Almighty God, cultivate gratitude, and reflect on the blessings in our lives, keeping us engaged and connected to our faith. For God’s enduring love is with us at all times and in all seasons. Whenever we find ourselves in times of trouble we approach the Almighty with hearts full of gratitude and a spirit of appreciation, seeking deliverance. Recognizing God’s compassionate nature, we humbly request His divine intervention. With thankful hearts, we can recognize the love of God has always carried us out. God desires us as followers to not only come before the Almighty when in trouble, but with thankful hearts always lean into the mercy seat, and transform into a new creation that honors God, loves people as God loves people, and worship the Almighty through living our life as an act of worship.